如何开展“人造太阳”聚变研究辐射安全监管？生态环境部回应

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese government is actively developing a regulatory framework for radiation safety in nuclear fusion research, ensuring the safe advancement of fusion technology while addressing potential radiation risks associated with various fusion devices [1][2]. Group 1: Regulatory Framework - The Ministry of Ecology and Environment has been closely monitoring the developments in fusion research and has initiated forward-looking studies to implement regulations tailored to the specific characteristics of fusion devices [1][2]. - In April 2023, the Ministry issued a notification updating the regulatory requirements for fusion devices, building on a 2016 document that outlined management requirements for small tokamak devices [2]. Group 2: Safety and Risk Management - The current fusion devices are primarily research-focused, with diverse technical routes and working media, leading to varying radiation safety risks [2]. - The Ministry has issued radiation safety licenses to 11 institutions, including the China National Nuclear Corporation and the Hefei Institute of Physical Science, indicating a structured approach to assessing and managing radiation safety risks [2]. Group 3: Future Directions - The Ministry plans to advance the development of a regulatory standard system for fusion, closely track international developments in fusion, and actively participate in the formulation of international standards [2]. - There is an emphasis on building a professional talent pool, particularly by recruiting individuals with expertise in fusion, to establish a consultation database for fusion experts [2].